In this episode, we are welcoming legendary player Mark Hateley. During his conversation with David and Bob, Mark discusses his new autobiography “Hitting the Mark: My Story,” the influence his father had over his soccer career, the memorable players Mark worked with and played against, and what helped him the most in his efforts to become the best player he could possibly be.
On this episode:
● Why Mark felt encouraged to write a book about his career.
● The difficulty Mark had in stepping out of his dad’s shadow.
● The type of player Mark wanted to be when he was younger.
● How his father taught him all he knew about soccer.
● Mark’s experience playing for Coventry City.
● How Franz Beckenbauer provided helpful information while playing against Mark.
● How he ended up on a loan with the Detroit Express.
● Mark and Bob’s thoughts on playing in the Pontiac Silverdome stadium.
● How Mark thought about and dealt with injuries at a young age.
● The injury that kept Mark out of the game for over two years.
● Bob and Mark’s thoughts on the offside rule.
● The memorable people Mark played against in the NASL.
● How Mark was introduced to George Best.
● Why Mark’s focus was always on being the best player he could be.
● Where the NASL stands in comparison to other leagues.
● Mark’s experience playing in Milan and the players he got to know there.
● The part of his career he wants to be remembered for.